Released on June 28, 2013
The Government of Saskatchewan will present the Battlefords-area francophone community with a Fransaskois flag on Canada Day, while the City of North Battleford celebrates its centennial.
“It's wonderful to acknowledge the social and cultural legacy of the Battlefords-area francophones, who have enriched our community and our province,” The Battleford's MLA Herb Cox said on behalf of Provincial Secretary Wayne Elhard. “It is especially appropriate as we celebrate 100 years as a city and Canada's 146th birthday.”
The Fransaskois flag was adopted as a provincial emblem in 2005 to recognize the status of French as one of Canada's official languages and to acknowledge the heritage of Saskatchewan's francophones and their significant contributions to the province. A commemorative plaque will also be presented to the Battlefords-area francophone community.
French-speaking voyageurs came to the Battlefords area more than 200 years ago, while francophone farmers settled in nearby Delmas and Cochin more than 100 years ago. Today, the area is home to a vibrant francophone community.
“We sincerely appreciate the province recognizing the contributions made by the Fransaskois community in the Battlefords area as we continue to all work together to make Saskatchewan an even better place,” Centre Francophone des Battlefords (Battlefords Francophone Centre) President Martin Prince said.
The Fransaskois flag has been presented to Duck Lake, Ferland, St. Denis, Gravelbourg, Zenon Park, Regina, Saskatoon and Bellegarde as part of a province-wide recognition initiative.
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For more information, contact:
Dan Palmer
Intergovernmental Affairs
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2155
Email: dan.palmer@gov.sk.ca